Interphalangeal joint of the hand

Last revised by Daniel J Bell on 16 Nov 2021

Interphalangeal (IP) joints of the hand are hinge-type synovial joints between adjacent phalanges. The thumb has a single interphalangeal joint, and the second to fifth digits each have a proximal and a distal interphalangeal joint.

The head of the more proximal phalanx articulates with the base of the more distal phalanx.

  • flexion
  • extension
    • limited by the palmar and collateral ligaments

Each joint is enclosed by a fibrous capsule which attaches to the margins of the articular surfaces and is lined by a synovial membrane.

  • two collateral ligaments
    • strengthen the capsule on each side 1,2
  • palmar ligament (volar plate)
    • a thick, fibrocartilaginous plate that connects the collateral ligaments and attaches firmly to the base of the more distal phalanx and attaches loosely to the head of the more proximal phalanx 1,2

Deep digital arteries from the superficial palmar arch.

Digital nerves from the ulnar and median nerves.

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